Connecticut Governor Creates Identity Theft Advisory Board

HARTFORD, Conn. - Gov. M. Jodi Rell, concerned about the growing vulnerability of Connecticut residents to identity thieves and financial predators, signed an executive order designed to strengthen state laws and better protect the financial security of residents, businesses and financial institutions. The Executive Order No. 11 established the Governor's Identity Theft Advisory Board, which will be chaired by Public Safety Commissioner Leonard Boyle. The advisory board will also include: the Chief State's Attorney; the state's Commissioners of Consumer Protection, Insurance, and Banking or their designees; the state's Chief Information Officer or her designee; the State Victim Advocate; representatives from the Connecticut Business and Industry Association and the insurance and financial services fields; a member of the public who is the owner of a small business; and a member of the public who has been the victim of identity theft. The advisory board will report by Jan. 1, 2006 to the governor on recommendations for improving Connecticut's current laws, regulations, policies and procedures concerning identity theft. Specifically to: * prevent citizens, businesses and financial institutions from becoming victims of identity theft; * promote the security and privacy of personal financial information; * minimize the effects of identity theft on those who become victims; and * assist in the identification, apprehension and prosecution of identity thieves. The advisory board will also look at ways to better educate the general public on identity theft and protection of personal financial information.